Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days

After an early breakfast, you will begin the most demanding high-altitude section of the Lares Trek. The route climbs from Puyoc toward Sicllakasa Pass, the highest point of the itinerary at approximately 4,830 meters or 15,846 feet.

At the pass, you will have time to rest and appreciate the surrounding mountains before beginning the descent toward the lagoons and wetlands near Yanacocha. This area is characterized by open puna landscapes, high-altitude vegetation and the possibility of observing alpacas and llamas.

The descent continues toward Cuncani, a traditional Andean community located at approximately 3,800 meters or 12,467 feet. Your guide will provide context about local agriculture, clothing, language and daily life.

After arriving at the campsite, you will have dinner and rest before the final trekking section of the route.

Approximate distance: 11–12 km / 6.8–7.5 mi
Walking time: 6–8 hours
Maximum altitude: 4,830 m / 15,846 ft
Accommodation: Camping in Cuncan

The third day begins with breakfast at the campsite. Before leaving Cuncani, you may have an opportunity to learn more about the community’s customs and the use of Quechua in daily life.

You will then begin a mostly descending hike through agricultural landscapes toward the Lares Valley. Along the route, you may observe local crops such as quinoa and tarwi, as well as small communities surrounded by mountains.

After approximately three to four hours of walking, you will arrive at the Lares Hot Springs. Travelers who wish to enter the thermal pools may do so by paying the local entrance fee directly.

After lunch and time to rest, private transportation will take you through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo. From there, you will board the scheduled train to Aguas Calientes.

Upon arrival, a representative will assist you with hotel check-in. You will have dinner and receive final instructions for the following morning’s Machu Picchu visit.

Approximate distance: 7–8 km / 4.3–5 mi
Walking time: 3–4 hours
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, snack and dinner
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes

After breakfast, you will take the tourist bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu according to the entrance time confirmed with your reservation.

Inside the archaeological site, your professional guide will provide an approximately two-hour explanation of the history, architecture and principal sectors included in your assigned circuit.

The exact areas visited depend on the Machu Picchu route confirmed at the time of booking. The official system currently consists of three principal circuits grouping several individual routes.

After completing the visit, you will return by bus to Aguas Calientes. You will have time to purchase lunch before boarding the scheduled train to Ollantaytambo.

Upon arrival at the train station, a Kantu Peru Tours representative will meet you and provide transportation back to your hotel in Cusco.

Guided visit: Approximately 2 hours
Machu Picchu altitude: Approximately 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
Meals: Breakfast
Return: Train and tourist transportation to Cusco

The highest point of this route is Sicllakasa Pass at approximately 4,830 meters or 15,846 feet above sea level.

Spending at least two or three days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before departure is recommended. This allows your body time to adjust before crossing the high-altitude sections.

The Lares Trek focuses more on mountain landscapes, remote communities and cultural interaction. It does not follow the same archaeological route as the Classic Inca Trail and reaches Machu Picchu by train after completing the trekking section.

The Lares Trek emphasizes rural Andean communities and cultural experiences. The Salkantay Trek is generally more focused on glacial mountains, cloud forest landscapes and the crossing of Salkantay Pass.

Yes. The standard program includes a Machu Picchu entrance ticket. The specific circuit and entrance time are confirmed according to official availability.

The itinerary includes a stop at the Lares Hot Springs, but the local entrance fee is not included unless specifically stated in the confirmed reservation.

The tour includes two camping nights and one hotel night in Aguas Calientes. Camping equipment and trekking mattresses are provided.

The program includes three breakfasts, three lunches and three dinners. Breakfast on Day 1 and lunch and dinner on Day 4 are not included.

Mules can transport up to 7 kilograms or approximately 15 pounds of personal belongings per traveler during the applicable trekking days. You must carry your own daypack.

Yes. Solo travelers can join a confirmed shared departure. Private service is also available for travelers seeking a personalized experience.

Travelers generally prefer months with more stable and drier conditions. However, mountain weather can change at any time, so rain protection and warm clothing are necessary throughout the year.

The Lares hiking route is different from the regulated Classic Inca Trail. However, your Machu Picchu entrance and train reservations remain subject to availability and should be secured in advance.

Electricity may be unavailable or limited at the campsites. Bring a fully charged portable power bank and conserve battery during the first two days.

Travel insurance is not included. Coverage for trekking activities, medical assistance, delays and cancellations is strongly recommended.